Waterloo Region – Today, Waterloo Region is expecting to surpass the significant milestone of having administered 200,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to residents. With an expected increase in the vaccine supply in the latter half of May, the Region is announcing that it will expand pre-registration to two additional groups on Saturday, May 1: individuals with at-risk health conditions as outlined by the Province; and adults 55+ or anyone born in 1966 who is turning 55 this year.

Opening up pre-registration to additional groups helps the Waterloo Region Vaccine Distribution Task Force prepare for the next group to be vaccinated. Anyone who has already pre-registered who is waiting for a booking invitation will be contacted within 4-6 weeks as vaccine becomes available. People will be invited to book an appointment in the order they were invited to pre-register.

Individuals with any of the at-risk health conditions listed below are now able to pre-register for the vaccine. These health conditions have been prioritized by the Province as they increase the risk of severe outcomes and hospitalization from COVID-19 infection.

• Immune deficiencies / autoimmune disorders
• Stroke / cerebrovascular disease
• Dementia
• Diabetes
• Liver disease
• All other cancers
• Respiratory diseases
• Spleen problems (e.g., asplenia)
• Heart disease
• Hypertension with end organ damage
• Diagnosis of mental disorder
• Substance use disorder
• Sickle cell disease
• Thalassemia
• Immunocompromising health conditions
• Other disabilities requiring direct support care in the community

“It is very encouraging to be able to open pre-registration to more residents of Waterloo Region including those with at-risk health conditions and adults who are 55+,” said Shirley Hilton, Deputy Chief for Waterloo Region Police Service and head of the Waterloo Region Vaccine Distribution Task Force. “It is equally encouraging that later today we expect to surpass the tremendous milestone of 200,000 total doses administered in Waterloo Region.”

Individuals with at-risk health conditions and adults who are 55+ can pre-register for the vaccine on the Region of Waterloo website: COVID-19 Vaccination Pre-registration.

When residents receive their booking notification, they are strongly encouraged to schedule an appointment right away.

Adults who are 40+ or are turning 40 in 2021 can also receive the AstraZeneca vaccine at some primary care offices and select pharmacies across Waterloo Region. Appointments are required at primary care offices. Most pharmacies book appointments and some allow walk-ins so you should check before you go. For more information about where to book an appointment to get the AstraZeneca vaccine, visit these websites:

• Region of Waterloo: Primary care offices
• Ontario government: COVID-19 pharmacy vaccine locations

-30-

Media Contact:

Sharon Ord

Acting Vaccine Communications Lead

sord@regionofwaterloo.ca

General Inquiries: publichealth@regionofwaterloo.ca or 519-575-4400